Mentha aquatica, also known as Water Mint, is an easy-to-care-for aquatic plant that is great for beginners as well as experienced hobbyists.
This mint can be grown both terrestrially as well as submerged, making it an excellent candidate for a riparian-style setup.
Water Mint is safe for pets, though can be toxic in large doses if ingested, and is fast–growing if given proper care.
Quick Stats:
Scientific Name: Mentha aquatica
Family: Lamiaceae
Common Names: Water Mint, Aquatic Mint
Habitat: Wetlands, moist soil
Height: 6-12 inches thick
pH Range: 6.0-7.0
Temperature: 50°F to 85°F
What Is Water Mint?
Mentha aquatica, also known as Water Mint, is a perennial herb in the mint family that is typically found in damp places throughout Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
It has a sharp flavor, with a menthol aroma, and is used as a culinary herb in salads and sauces.
Water Mint is also used medicinally for its antiseptic, anti–inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties.
Water Mint Facts
This species of Mint is incredibly fast-growing, with each stem being able to produce hundreds of stem branches, growing in a number of different directions.
Water Mint has strong roots that will actually help to prevent the substrate from becoming too loose and allow it to handle incoming decay and silt better.
The plant can be placed in water depths of up to 24 inches and also prefers a well–lit environment to do its best.
Description
Water Mint has oblong to lance–shaped foliage with serrated edges. Leaves are of a green/blue tinge and are pointed at the tips.
Each stem can produce hundreds of stem branches that grow in a number of different directions.
Stems grow to an average height of 6–16 inches and have an intricate root system.
Habitat
Water Mint is native to Europe, where it is commonly found in areas of shallow water and marshy conditions.
It tends to prefer damp and shaded areas, making it best suited for a subtle and tranquil display.
pH Preference
Water Mint is most suited for a neutral pH balance and prefers an ideal range between 6.5 and 7.5.
If the pH balance is too low or too high, it can cause the leaves to discolor and yellow.
Vivarium Type
Water Mint is quite an easy-going species. With that in mind, it will not be too complicated when choosing the type of enclosure it is grown in. It is best to try and replicate the plant’s natural habitat as much as possible.
Doing so will make it easier to provide this foliage plant with its basic needs. The proper setup and theme of the enclosure will make a big difference to the overall look and health of the plant. Be sure to choose setups that are moist and high in humidity.
Here are recommended vivariums it will do well in:
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- Paludariums – Half aquatic/ half terrain-based enclosure.
- Ripariums – Mostly aquatic-based enclosures with some terrain features present.
- Terrariums – Fully terrain-based enclosures with little to no aquatic features.
Vivarium Placement
Mentha aquatica can be planted in a shallow water feature in the vivarium.
It prefers being placed in nutrient–rich soils and does best in cool water, so it needs to be planted in an area that is accessible for maintenance.
Substrate
Water Mint is best planted in slightly acidic, nutrient–rich aquatic substrates, such as nitrogen and phosphate–rich soils.
If using nutrient–rich soil, be sure to have a deep enough substrate to be able to bury the roots of the Water Mint to the depth of the water.
Lighting
Water Mint thrives in medium to low lighting and can even survive in slightly shaded areas of the vivarium.
A low–intensity LED aquarium light will work best, or you can use fluorescent lighting.
Buy Water Mint
When buying Water Mint, there are a few things to keep in mind. Making sure the plant is healthy when purchased is essential for its success in a vivarium or pond. Vegetation that is already in poor conditions will have a very hard time adjusting to new environments.
Click the image below to learn more about the current price and other relative info about this plant.
Water Mint Care & Propagation
Water Mint requires little maintenance and is one of the most effortless plants to look after.
Regular maintenance includes trimming damaged leaves and stems and removing any trace of algae.
This plant can also be rooted and propagated simply by cutting the stem and repotting it.
How To Grow
Water Mint is an easy–to–propagate species and can easily be propagated by division.
Take a mature portion of the plant, cut off the roots and remove any dead or damaged parts, and replant it in a nutrient–rich substrate.
Water Requirements
Mentha aquatica, also known as Water Mint, is a hardy aquatic plant that does best in an environment with moderate to high water flow.
Leaves submerged in the water should be trimmed regularly to prevent the plant from dying.
The plant requires approximately 5–10 cm of water depth at all times. Water changes should be done monthly, or as needed if water starts to look cloudy or discolored.
Plants Similar To Water Mint
Adding diversity to an enclosure is key to an aesthetically pleasing setup. Try mixing up the look of your vivarium with different flora that can easily co-exist in the same types of environment.
Furthermore, if for some reason you find Water Mint hard to acquire or would like to consider something similar to this aquarium plant… Here are other pond plants you might see will do well with or in place of Mentha aquatica:
Conclusion
Mentha aquatic is a great beginner-level aquatic plant to have in your aquarium. With its fast-growing capabilities and unique texture and aroma, it makes a great addition to any freshwater vivarium.
Water Mint is an ideal choice for adding a refreshing, natural look to the tank. It is easy to care for and propagate and can easily be maintained with regular maintenance and weekly water changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can eat aquatic mint. Aquatic mint can be eaten raw or cooked as a pot herb, added to salads or beverages, and used as a garnish.
Water mint is used for medicinal and culinary purposes, such as making herbal teas, infusing in oil, and flavoring sauces and soups. It is also used in folk medicine for digestive complaints, reducing fever, and as an antioxidant.
Water mint is also used in a vivarium as a natural freshwater filter and air purifier. It helps filter bacteria and algae, reduce toxins in the water, and provide a more natural habitat for the other fish and animals in the vivarium. It also adds oxygen to the water, providing a cleaner and more pleasant atmosphere for your vivarium‘s inhabitants.
No, water mint is not toxic to dogs.
No, water mint (Mentha aquatic) is a different species than mint (Mentha spp.). While both are members of the mint family, water mint is a perennial aquatic plant, while most species of mint are perennial herbaceous plants.